DRUG PROFILE Ibandronate: a new perspective in the treatment of osteoporosis

10.2217/14750708.2.2.179 © 2 part of Osteoporosis is a common, increasingly prevalent condition worldwide. Osteoporotic fractures are associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, and health service resource use. Current daily oral and weekly bisphosphonates are highly effective in managing osteoporosis but patients often fail to take their medication correctly and/or stop treatment prematurely. This poor adherence limits the benefits of bisphosphonates in routine clinical practice and adds to health service costs. More convenient bisphosphonate regimens, with a lower dosing frequency, would be predicted to improve adherence and optimize therapeutic benefits. Once-monthly oral and intermittent intravenous injection regimens now in late-stage clinical development for ibandronate show considerable potential to deliver these benefits.